SM integrates cutting-edge technologies such as the IoT, AI, robotics, data analytics, and cloud computing to optimize processes, enhance productivity, and improve decision-making in manufacturing environments. In response to the rapidly evolving manufacturing landscape driven by technological advances, the APO and China Productivity Center established the COE on SM in 2019. In 2022, the APO […]
According to the UN FAO (2023), agricultural mechanization is needed to make agrifood systems more sustainable from economic and social aspects, such as labor productivity, poverty reduction, food security, and health and well-being. Machinery is indispensable for modern farming. As human labor has moved from agriculture to other sectors, agricultural workers have been replaced with […]
The smart village concept is a transformative approach that leverages digital infrastructure and innovations to enhance the quality of life and economic opportunities in rural communities. It contributes to addressing urgent needs such as enhancing economic opportunities and preventing urban migration by providing sustainable, innovative solutions for agriculture, energy, healthcare, and education. The adoption of […]
The APO GP concept guides enterprises, especially SMEs, in improving their environmental performance with simultaneous increases in productivity, quality, and employee well-being. The APO Handbook on GP is a guide to methodologies, tools, and techniques for enterprises to adopt for tangible gains. Projects and initiatives following the GP framework to improve the triple bottom line […]
According to a 2024 Harvard University report, open innovation is a strategy that suggests the best ideas, solutions, and people to solve difficult organizational problems. This type of innovation is being used by a growing number of public-sector organizations to adopt good ideas from around the world to improve the delivery of public services. Implementing […]
In this informative P-Talk, Jargalsaikhan Dugar, Chairman, Gund Investment, Mongolia, shares insights on how startups can apply system-based digital transformation to visualize and quantify goal achievement, time efficiency, and performance, all of which are connected in enhancing productivity. The P-Talk emphasizes that startups can ensure that people, processes, and technology are aligned and function cohesively […]
This Top Talk highlights the importance of a personal productivity mindset (PPM) in shaping productivity awareness levels. Dr. Ha Minh Hiep, APO Director for Vietnam and APO Meritorious and Distinguished Award recipient 2024, shares his experience in developing a PPM. His insights have profoundly shaped Vietnam’s approach to improving productivity. Please click here to watch. […]
The APO is mandated to support productivity enhancement in its members through SME development and digital upgrading. Easier access to digital devices and technologies enables SMEs to leverage resources and approach customers that were previously difficult to reach. Understanding how to apply digital means for strategic marketing is crucial for smaller businesses to stay resilient, […]
The nexus between IP and sustainable innovation is of paramount importance in driving productivity-led growth. The emphasis on innovation ecosystems, as highlighted in the APO Vision 2025, underscores the critical importance of this synergy. As a cornerstone, IP facilitates the equitable sharing and protection of knowledge, thereby fostering economic advances. Robust IP frameworks not only […]
The path toward net-zero emissions requires industry to shift from the linear model of “take–make–waste.” Holistic approaches leveraging technologies, innovation, supportive financial mechanisms, impact assessment of products and services, and engagement of partners across value chains are needed to limit the global temperature rise within 1.5°C under the Paris Agreement during COP21. Greening businesses contributes […]
The assessment process is crucial for certification schemes. It ensures the consistency and quality of schemes, enhances the credibility and reputation of both certified persons and CBs, oversees compliance with rules and standards, and upholds the code of ethics. Aligned with other international certification standards, APO-PS 101:2023 provides guidelines for APO-AB accredited CBs to conduct […]
Reskilling the public-sector workforce is essential for effective public service delivery, especially with the rapid adoption of digital technologies revealing significant skill gaps in areas like AI and cloud computing. Addressing these gaps is crucial for maintaining operational continuity, efficiency, and speed while reducing costs. A digitally proficient workforce enhances inclusively and accessibility, making services […]
“Regulations” refer to the use of legal instruments to adopt government policy interventions. Appropriate regulations serve to complement the democratic process and market economy to provide a fair, equitable, efficient environment for citizens and organizations to operate in, enabling the improvement of productivity communitywide. However, if not implemented appropriately, regulations can result in unnecessary costs, […]
Gene editing represents a significant advance in agricultural biotechnology, offering a precise method to enhance plant, fish, and animal breeds to improve the quality and productivity of agricultural products. According to the FAO (2022), it can contribute to increasing crop yields, enhancing nutritional profiles, and bolstering environmental resilience. Gene editing allows for more precise modifications […]
In this insightful presentation, Wichai Paksa from the Bank for Agriculture and Agricultural Cooperatives (BAAC), Thailand, explores the practical application of the sufficiency economy philosophy (SEP) in sustaining community development. The presentation highlights the BAAC’s evolution from a basic agricultural credit provider to a key player in rural development. Through detailed case studies, including the […]
Improving productivity in healthcare is crucial for reducing costs and enhancing patient care. Embracing technology can enhance efficiency, reduce errors, and optimize resource use in the healthcare sector. Technological integration can streamline administrative and care processes, personalize patient interactions, automate tasks, and allow clinicians to focus on complex procedures, leading to better healthcare outcomes (Deloitte, […]
Strengthening science, technology, and innovation (STI) capacity is crucial for sustaining productivity and shifting toward a knowledge-based economy. Technological innovation, powered by automation and resource optimization, enhances output while reducing costs. R&D, a core pillar of STI, ensures that economies remain competitive by creating new products and processes. Continuous investment in STI is vital for […]
Building upon the results of a need and readiness assessment survey for CSA technologies conducted in 2023, a preparatory study mission by NARO as the COE on CSA for the implementation of a pilot project in Thailand was organized 23–26 April 2024. The mission introduced the soil carbon sequestration visualization tool and carbon credit methodology […]
Job redesign refers to the reformation of work tasks and responsibilities to optimize processes and employee allocation for enhanced quality and productivity. While digital technologies support the workforce, and diversity, equity, and inclusion are crucial elements for innovation and profitability, as a 2023 WEF report indicated, it is necessary to rethink and restructure how work […]
Rural areas face unique challenges such as limited access to markets, education, and decent jobs, resulting in a continuous influx of populations into cities and aging rural communities. The Future of Asian & Pacific Cities Report 2023 issued by UN ECSAP and Habitat listed issues of rapid urbanization such as social inequality, food security, environmental […]